Improving multi-discipline coordination through intelligent batch processing and automated data extraction
In large-scale construction projects, coordination between architectural, structural, and MEP disciplines requires constant exchange of drawings and data. Traditional manual export processes were consuming significant team resources and introducing errors that rippled through the entire project lifecycle.
I developed a custom Revit add-in using C# and the Revit API that automates the entire export workflow. The tool intelligently processes views in batches, applies consistent naming conventions, and extracts schedule data directly to structured CSV files.
Automatically identifies exportable views and filters out irrelevant content
Generates consistent file names based on project standards
Extracts schedule data to CSV with proper formatting
Handles hundreds of views efficiently with progress tracking
Comprehensive logging and graceful failure recovery
Customizable settings for different project requirements
The solution leverages the Revit API's ViewSchedule and ExportOptions classes, combined with custom logic for file management and data transformation.
// Sample: Batch export views to DWG
public void ExportViewsToDWG(List<View> views, string outputPath)
{
using (Transaction trans = new Transaction(doc, "Export Views"))
{
trans.Start();
foreach (var view in views)
{
var fileName = GenerateFileName(view);
var exportOptions = new DWGExportOptions();
doc.Export(outputPath, fileName, exportOptions);
LogProgress(view.Name);
}
trans.Commit();
}
}The automation tool transformed the coordination workflow, delivering immediate and measurable benefits to the project team.
Analyzed existing workflow, identified pain points, and designed solution architecture
Built batch export functionality and naming logic using Revit API
Implemented schedule data extraction and CSV formatting
Created user interface, added progress tracking, and comprehensive error logging
Conducted user acceptance testing, refined based on feedback, and deployed to project team
"This tool has significantly improved our coordination process. What used to take an entire workday now happens in under an hour. The consistency and reliability have reduced many common issues."
— BIM Coordinator, Large Construction Project
The application follows a modular architecture with clear separation of concerns, making it maintainable and extensible for future enhancements.
External command entry point integrating with Revit's ribbon interface
Core processing logic for view filtering, naming, and export operations
Handles schedule data extraction and CSV file generation
WPF-based interface with MVVM pattern for clean data binding
Problem: Initial implementation was slow when processing large view sets.
Solution: Implemented view pre-filtering and parallel processing where possible,
reducing processing time by 60%.
Problem: Different disciplines had varying naming conventions.
Solution: Created a configurable naming template system with discipline-specific
prefixes and view type suffixes.
Problem: Single export failures would halt the entire batch process.
Solution: Implemented try-catch blocks around individual exports with detailed
logging, allowing the process to continue and report issues at completion.
Based on user feedback and project needs, planned improvements include:
Direct export to cloud platforms like BIM 360 or SharePoint
Automatic alerts when export batches complete
Track export history and identify usage patterns
Connect with project management tools for automated workflows
I'd love to discuss how custom BIM automation can transform your project workflows. Whether you need batch processing, data extraction, or custom reporting solutions, let's explore what's possible.